Luís Castro joins Grêmio, welcomed by Felipão: "With dignity" | OneFootball

Announced by Grêmio last Friday, coach Luís Castro celebrated his arrival at Grêmio. The Portuguese manager returns to Brazilian football after two years. In Brazil, the Portuguese coach previously managed Botafogo, between 2022 and 2023, and was even linked to Santos at the end of 2024. The new commander of the Imortal was also welcomed by Felipão, one of the greatest coaches in the history of the team from Rio Grande do Sul and the current technical coordinator of the club.

“It is with great happiness that I announce my next challenge: Coaching the Imortal Tricolor. Grêmio has a rich and inspiring history,” said Luís Castro in a post on social media.

At 64 years old, Luís Castro has managed clubs such as Botafogo (2022 to 2023), Al-Nassr (2023 to 2024), and most recently Al-Wasl, where he worked from July to November this year. At the Emirati club, he led the team in 14 matches, achieving nine wins, three draws, and two losses, as well as 33 goals scored. According to an official statement from Al-Wasl, the contract termination was by mutual agreement.

“I am very honored to represent a club of such great prestige and stature. Together we will continue on this path with dignity and respect,” added the Portuguese coach.

  See this photo on Instagram   A post shared by Luis Castro (@luis_castro_official)

Felipão's Blessing

In a humorous tone, Felipão welcomed Luís Castro. Scolari, who was coach of the Portuguese national team between 2002 and 2008, spoke about how well he was received in Europe and wished the same for the Portuguese coach.

“Come to the Imortal. You will be well received, just as I was in Portugal. Our Portugal!” said Felipão in a video posted on Grêmio’s social media.

Under Scolari’s command, Portugal had its second-best World Cup campaign in 2006, finishing fourth. In addition, they were runners-up at Euro 2004, the national team’s best performance in the tournament until 2016, when they won the title for the first time.

In addition to his affection for Portugal, Felipão also praised the characteristics of Rio Grande do Sul for Luís Castro. “Know that we are waiting for you with open arms. With chimarrão and barbecue… Get ready! We are waiting for you,” concluded the coach.

Felipão had four stints as Grêmio’s coach and won seven titles. Under Scolari, the Imortal won three Campeonato Gaúcho titles (1987, 1995, and 1996), one Copa do Brasil (1994), one Libertadores (1995), one Brasileirão (1996), and one Recopa Sul-Americana (1996).

Finally, Scolari praised Grêmio’s fans, highlighting the strengths of the Imortal’s stands. “We are a gritty, strong, vibrant fanbase that helps our team win,” he concluded.

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This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.